THE Professional Darts Corporation was saddened to learn of the passing of former player Davey Dodds at the age of 46.
Davey initially competed as an amateur qualifier in the 2011 UK Open, where he lost out to eventual winner James Wade in the first round, and a year later defeated Alan Casey, Jon Jukes and Stuart White to reach the third round.
There, the gardener from County Durham was on the receiving end of a nine-darter from Gary Anderson as the Scot ran out a 9-3 winner.
Davey subsequently joined the PDC circuit in 2013 and won a Tour Card at the 2014 Qualifying School, making another appearance at the UK Open that year as he overcame David O'Brien before losing out to Benito van de Pas in round two.
Davey - nicknamed "Dodgy D" - also competed on the circuit in 2015 and at the 2016 Qualifying School.
The PDC sends its condolences to Davey's family at this time.
Gary Anderson led the tributes to Davey on social media
RIP Davey Dodds a great player. Thoughts go out to his family & friends!
— Gary Anderson (@GaryAnderson180) August 21, 2017
Relive Gary Anderson's nine-dart finish against Davey Dodds
Reaching the third round, Dodds' 2012 UK Open showing will also be remembered for being on the end of a perfect leg from Gary Anderson. pic.twitter.com/eOHb8pRj9w
— PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) August 21, 2017